The Most Durable Fabrics to Use for Reupholstering

When you have a couch or chair to reupholster, finding the right fabric for the job can seem like a mystery. After all, the differences between fabric compositions are complex. Today we’re going to look at the different fabric options that you have. Finding out about weave and patterns helps you to decide the fabric for your next upholstery project. Consider kid-friendly options and ones that’ll withstand Fido sneaking a comfy nap. Discover the most durable fabrics to use for reupholstering.

Understanding the Differences in Fabric Options

Different fabrics bring a lot to the table. There are natural options like cotton and wool. And manmade fibers give you stain protection. You can find beauty in any choice that works for your family.

Natural Options

Natural fibers span a vast range of textures and softness. Buyers may experience confusion when comparing styles. Some natural fibers, like wool and cotton, lend themselves well to being used for couches and other heavily used pieces of furniture.

Delicate Fibers

Other natural fibers, like silk and rayon, are not nearly as well suited for trafficked areas. Well-used furniture like couches needs durable fabrics. Silk and rayon are delicate. There is a place for these fabrics, but your living room furniture is not one of them.

Tougher Material for Trafficked Areas

Many buyers would not put leather into the same category with cotton and silk. However, leather is another natural option that’s very popular for use in sofas that receive a lot of action. If cost isn’t a concern, leather couches are an incredibly attractive option for durability. And they hold up to the rigors of family use.

Microfibers

Microfiber couches are made from synthetic materials that mimic suede and other natural materials. Since they’re not naturally derived, microfiber couches are significantly cheaper. And often they are much more durable than their natural fiber counterparts. Many families are attracted to microfiber because stain resistance can be engineered into the fabric. As a result, they are more likely to withstand the rigors of kids playing and pets running across them. Plus, they clean well with a damp cloth. And have such a tight weave that pet claws cannot puncture.

Indoor-Outdoor Options

Indoor-outdoor fabric choices may not be your first thought when it comes to replacing the fabric on your indoor couch. However, these fabrics are pretty versatile and do well indoors, as well as out. Also, indoor-outdoor fabrics used to be waxy and stiff. But now they’re soft enough to use indoors without anyone being the wiser.

Water Resistance

And with built-in water resistance, spills are no match for indoor-outdoor fabric. Wetness beads and wipes away easily with a cloth. Also, there are so many options when it comes to indoor-outdoor fabric, too. And you’ll hardly be stuck with bright nautical stripes or palm tree branches as your only choices.

Thinking About Weave and Composition

Weave and fabric composition make a world of difference when it comes to the durability of your fabric choice. As you might expect, tightly woven fabrics are more durable than loosely woven ones. However, they might be a lot stiffer.

Woven Fabrics

Woven fabrics come in many styles, from a straight weave to twill weave. And there are patterned weaves that feature machine designed styles that blend fibers in a unique fashion to show off some pattern. If you’re choosing a woven fabric, you will want to consider something that has a tight, nearly impermeable weave. Also, this type of weave stands up to puppy claws and whatever your kids might throw at it.

The Popularity of Cotton Twill

Cotton twill is a very popular option for a durable woven fabric. And it’s one of the only natural options that are recommended for families with mess-prone living areas.

Non-Woven Fabrics

Non-woven fabrics span a large category. It includes everything from microfiber cloth to leather. And non-woven fabrics can be easily punctured or very durable, depending on the fabric type.

Consider Durability

Typically though, non-woven fabrics are more durable than woven ones. The reason is there simply aren’t gaps between wefts and fibers. Additionally, costs for nonwoven fabrics vary widely. And there is a large range of fabric types that fall into this category.

If you’re ready to reupholster your couch and are looking for a professional opinion on what to do with your fabric options, we can help. Getting an expert opinion on upholstery topics is a great idea. After all, you might not have more in mind than what color or pattern you’d like. And at Lim’s Upholstery, we take the guesswork out of your next upholstery decision. We listen to what you need to ensure satisfaction with the results. Finally, we help you find the fabric that will work the best for your furniture, budget, and lifestyle.